Authorities have announced the indictment of a Bronx man, Ralph Wallace, on charges of violent sex trafficking involving multiple women. The allegations as detailed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, include horrific abuses spanning from at least 2021 to 2025. Wallace, who referred to himself as a "pimp," is accused of recruiting women for commercial sex operations, taking all profits, and enforcing his will through physical violence and coercion.
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney, addressed the gravity of the allegations, “As alleged, Ralph Wallace systematically exploited and abused women, using horrific violence to force women to engage in prostitution against their will. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will relentlessly pursue those who engage in sex trafficking. If you have been a victim of the alleged crimes perpetrated by Wallace, we urge you to come forward by contacting 1-877-4-HSI-TIP.” Acting Special Agent in charge of HSI New York, Michael Alfonso, hailed the bravery of the victims who endured a long history of "unimaginably cruel violence and abuse," as noted by the same press release.
The indictment details Wallace's operation tactics, which included him taking nude photographs of the women and instructing them on various aspects of engaging in commercial sex. He not only controlled their actions but also deprived them of basic needs to ensure compliance with his demands. In one instance, Wallace is charged with withholding essentials like food and toiletries unless the women agree to continue working for him.
Ralph Wallace, 36, of the Bronx, now faces two counts of sex trafficking by force, which carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years. Fraud, or coercion, and one count of transportation to engage in prostitution, which can result in a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment. The charges, while serious, are simply accusations at this point, and Wallace is presumed innocent until proven guilty as per the judicial process, the U.S. Attorney's Office detailed.
HSI New York and the New York City Police Department Human Trafficking Task Force were praised for their investigative efforts that led to Wallace's indictment. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Madison Reddick Smyser and Getzel Berger are leading the prosecution's charge. Those who believe they may have been victimized by Wallace are encouraged to reach out to HSI through their email at [email protected] or via the tip-line at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP, referencing this case.
